Shiretoko : A UNESCO world heritage site

Shiretoko Designated as a World Heritage Site

Shiretoko was registered as a World Heritage site on July 17, 2005. This site, covering an area of approximately 70,000 hectares, includes the Shiretoko Peninsula, surrounded by the Sea of Okhotsk, and its accompanying coastal areas. With this designation, Shiretoko has become the third Japanese World Heritage site after Yakushima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture) and the Shirakami mountain range (Aomori and Akita Prefectures). This is the southernmost area in the world where drift ice reaches shore. Plankton brought by the drift ice enriches the local marine ecosystem, which together with an unspoiled land ecosystem, constitute one of the primary characteristics of Shiretoko. One of the main reasons for Shiretoko’s designation as a world heritage site is that it serves as a breeding place for the brown bear, more densely populated here than elsewhere in the world, and globally rare species such as Blakiston’s fish owl, Steller’s sea eagle and the White-tailed eagle.

Shiretoko Highlights

Shiretoko, “the last paradise” for many wild animals, has a variety of scenic sites represented by the Shiretoko Hakkei - the eight most scenic spots of Shiretoko. In summer, visitors can appreciate rare animal and plant species and the unspoiled natural environment via trekking and mountain-climbing. Taking the Shiretoko tour ship Aurora, the nature observation boat Nature Watching Boat or a sea kayak is a great way to fully enjoy the natural splendor of Shiretoko. You'll be able to see steep cliffs, numerous water falls flowing into the Sea of Okhotsk, dolphins, seals and colonies of seabirds. On the Shiretoko Pass you'll find Kuma no Yu Hot Springs, where guests can bathe in pristine natural surroundings. In winter, visitors can enjoy traipsing through the forests on cross-country skis or snowshoes, taking walks on the drift ice, or try their hand at ice diving.

Shiretoko Hakkei - The Eight Most Scenic Spots of Shiretoko

A pilgrimage to Shiretoko’s eight most scenic spots, which include falls, lakes, capes and rocks, is a must when touring Shiretoko. Enjoy beautiful and dynamic landscapes produced by the skilled hand of nature.

Oshinkoshin Waterfall

Also known as the “Sobi” or “Paired Beauty” Waterfall,” due to a separating fork in the middle of the cascade cliff. A stairway allows visitors to climb to the midway point of the fall where an observatory offers a breathtaking view.

Oronko Rock

This massive rock, located near the Port of Utoro, has a height of 60 meters. The name Oronko is said to have derived from an ethic group of Ainu. The flat summit of the rock commands a panoramic view of the Sea of Okhotsk and the Shiretoko mountain range.

Base of the Setting Sun

Located at a corner of the government-built Shiretoko Campsite, this popular spot is frequented by couples for its famous sunsets. The expressions created by the setting sun change depending on the season and are stunningly beautiful.

Cape Puyuni

This cape commands a panoramic view of the idyllic coastline of the Sea of Okhotsk and the Port of Utoro. Drift ice can be seen here in winter, and the view produced by the setting sun is particularly spectacular.

Furepe Waterfall

From the appearance of water cascading gently like tears running down a cheek, this site is known to local residents "Otome No Namida," or "Teardrops of the Maiden." No rivers flow into this waterfall; instead, snow and rain that rise to the surface run down from cracks in the steep cliffs above.

Shiretoko Pass

This pass, 728 meters above sea level, is located at the summit of the Shiretoko Cross Road and popular as a driving destination. The view from here changes depending on the season and is particularly impressive in the fall, when Mt. Rausu is tinted with autumn colors.

Shiretoko Five Lakes

Five magical lakes surrounded by virgin forest. The promenade encircling these lakes allow visitors to walk around all five lakes in just one hour while viewing a multitude of plants and animals. The view of the surrounding virgin forest and the Shiretoko mountain range reflected on the surface of the lakes along makes this place worthy of being called a pristine paradise.

Kamui Wakka Hot Waterfall

Huh? A hot spring waterfall? Surprisingly enough, hot springs gushing out from the mountainside of fuming Mt. Iou cascade the cliff, and tiers at the basin of the falls are used as a open-air baths.